Thousands of Celtic supporters are preparing to make the short jaunt down to Ayr this evening to see the Bhoys in action for the first time since the Scottish Cup final in May.

Pre-season friendlies are the ideal opportunity for managers to give opportunities to lesser-spotted fringe players and academy youngsters who have the potential to break through.

That will likely be the case tonight, and one prospect who could get the nod is Josh Dede.

With Alistair Johnston still on international duty at the Copa America and Anthony Ralston enjoying an extended summer break due to his participation at the Euros, the right-back spot in the Celtic team is up for grabs.

Having trained with the senior side all of pre-season, we are likely to see Dede take the empty berth.

The right-back was involved with the first team in 2022 and played under Ange Postecoglou in some pre-season friendlies at 16.

Now 18 years old, Dede has an almighty opportunity to make an impression on Brendan Rodgers.

Despite some injury issues, the Scotland youth international played 18 times for Celtic’s B team last season.

A quick, energetic full-back who loves to get forward, seeing Dede in action this evening should be intriguing.

There is strong competition at right-back when all of Celtic’s senior players are available, so the teenager will need to grasp his pre-season chance if he wants to be part of the first-team set-up going forward.